Idaho Democratic Party Staff Votes Unanimously to Unionize

The staff of the Idaho Democratic Party have voted to unionize, the first of any state democratic party staff in the nation to do so. A spokesperson for IDP said the vote was unanimous. Staff has authorized the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 291 to serve as its collective bargaining representative.

"This is a huge milestone for the IBEW and the IDP," said IBEW 291 business manager Mark Zaleski.

IBEW officials said they'll be working with IDP staff to draw up a contract to address staff concerns while meeting both management and staff needs.

"Although it creates some challenges, I am pleased our staff has decided to unionize," said IDP Chairman Bert Marley. "Our staff is setting an example of what it means to 'walk the talk' for other state parties and progressive organizations around the country."